Rwanda safari in March

Monthly Safari Guide

Rwanda Safari in
March

Long Rains Begin 15-26°C 120mm rain 2284 tours
March begins Rwanda's long rainy season with increasing showers on the Virunga slopes. Gorilla trekking continues, though trails become muddy and more physically demanding. The trade-off is significantly fewer tourists and the possibility of negotiated rates at lodges. The volcanic landscape is at its greenest and most dramatic, with mist swirling through the bamboo forest. Budget travellers should note that Rwanda does not discount its $1,500 gorilla permits, but overall trip costs are lower with reduced accommodation rates.

Season overview

Long Rains Begin in Rwanda

March falls within Rwanda's long rains begin, characterised by daytime highs of 26°C and overnight lows of 15°C. Average rainfall is 120mm, making this a rainy period.

The rainy season brings lush green landscapes, baby animals, and exceptional birdwatching. Rain typically falls in afternoon bursts, leaving mornings clear for game drives. The trade-off for occasional rain is significantly fewer tourists and lower prices.

Wildlife & nature

Wildlife Highlights in March

  • ● Gorilla trekking continues in wet conditions
  • ● Forest birds in breeding plumage
  • ● Lush green volcanic slopes
  • ● Fewer tourists for more intimate encounters

Where to go

Best Parks in Rwanda for March

★ Volcanoes NP

Top pick this month

Nyungwe Forest

Recommended for March

Akagera

Recommended for March

Planning

Crowds & Pricing in March

Crowd Level

Low

Price Level

Low Season

Average price per person

Budget

$2490

from $160 · 345 tours

Mid-range

$2965

from $80 · 605 tours

Luxury

$4426

from $350 · 103 tours

Ultra-Luxury

$7679

from $1111 · 14 tours

March is one of the most affordable months for a Rwanda safari. Lodges and camps offer significant discounts, sometimes 30-50% below peak rates. This is the time to experience premium properties at mid-range prices.

Preparation

What to Pack for March

✓ Full waterproof gear
✓ Waterproof hiking boots
✓ Gaiters
✓ Waterproof camera protection
✓ Warm waterproof layers for altitude

Waterproof gear is essential for March in Rwanda. Pack a good rain jacket and waterproof bag for electronics. Quick-dry fabrics are more practical than cotton. Despite the rain, sunscreen is still necessary for the strong tropical sun between showers. Neutral safari colours remain the best choice.

Book your adventure

Top Rwanda Safari Tours

Golden Rwanda Safaris

3-Day Gorilla Trekking and Mountain Biking at Lake Kivu

3 days standard 4.9★

From $3,190

Golden Rwanda Safaris

3-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking

3 days standard 4.9★

From $3,630

Golden Rwanda Safaris

4-Day Gorilla Trekking & Golden Monkeys

4 days standard 4.9★

From $4,400

Golden Rwanda Safaris

6-Day Middle Range Chimps & Nyungwe National Forest

6 days standard 4.9★

From $3,960

Golden Rwanda Safaris

5-Day Rwanda Gorillas & Lake Kivu Tour for 4 Nights

5 days standard 4.9★

From $5,500

Golden Rwanda Safaris

1-Day Akagera Private Safari with Lunch and Breakfast

1 days luxury 4.9★

From $550
View all 2284 Rwanda tours →

Frequently asked questions

Rwanda Safari in March FAQ

Is March a good time for a safari in Rwanda?

March falls in Rwanda's long rains begin, with temperatures of 15-26 degrees Celsius and 120mm average rainfall. Crowd levels are low, and pricing is at low season rates. Gorilla trekking continues in wet conditions. Overall, March is an excellent value month for a Rwanda safari.

How much does a Rwanda safari cost in March?

Rwanda safari costs in March vary by comfort level. Budget safaris average $2490/person from $160. Mid-range options average $2965/person. Luxury safaris average $4426/person. Ultra-luxury experiences average $7679/person. Prices are at their lowest in March. Compare 2284 tours on SafariPicked.

What wildlife can I see in Rwanda in March?

March wildlife highlights in Rwanda include: Gorilla trekking continues in wet conditions. Forest birds in breeding plumage. Lush green volcanic slopes. Fewer tourists for more intimate encounters. The best parks to visit this month are Volcanoes NP, Nyungwe Forest, Akagera.

What should I pack for a Rwanda safari in March?

Essential packing for a March Rwanda safari: Full waterproof gear, Waterproof hiking boots, Gaiters, Waterproof camera protection, Warm waterproof layers for altitude. Temperatures range from 15 to 26 degrees Celsius with 120mm rainfall, so waterproof gear is essential.

Which parks are best to visit in Rwanda in March?

The top parks in Rwanda for March are Volcanoes NP, Nyungwe Forest, Akagera. During the long rains begin, these parks offer the best game viewing conditions. Volcanoes NP is particularly recommended this month. Browse all Rwanda park guides and tour options on SafariPicked.